MIDDLESBROUGH Lions go into the winter break battered and bruised - but buoyed by a weekend of encouragement.

They have found their first year VCARS.co.uk League Division Three (North) tough going and are struggling near the foot of the table.

But they scored a much-needed 89-83 win over Shropshire Warriors despite travelling with just six players - and two of those were carrying injuries.

And they followed it up with a morale-boosting performance against joint top Sheffield Sabres when they were pipped 76-68 after going agonisingly close to causing a major upset.

Marcos Lopez (32pts) and Eleazar Jones (17pts) led the way against Shropshire as the injury-ravaged Lions were forced to field coach James Thomson and Sam Morgan despite injuries.

In the fourth quarter the impressive Shane Beadle and Jones also picked up knocks and strains but the team dug deep to produce an inspirational comeback in the final three minutes to secure a well deserved victory.

On Sunday Chris Lillystone (head injury) and Nacho Gonzalez (thigh strain) returned to the team.

But despite his side putting up a good show, Thomson was not happy.

“As a unit we were matching Sabres throughout the game despite some decisions going against us,” he said.

“With momentum in the final few minutes of the game I felt we were heading for the win, yet more decisions would go against us.

“Sabres are a very strong side with superb coaching and to absorb so many poor calls and still look likely to pip them at the post was a bitter pill to swallow.

“I hate blaming refs, especially as it makes you look a sore loser, but on this occasion I am very disappointed.”

One key incident was in the fourth quarter with just over a minute remaining. Lions were on a 10-0 run following superb play by Lopez and Jones.

The lead was reduced to just four points and the Lions were roaring.

Lee Norton then took contact on the dribble.

But instead of being sent to the free throw line due to team fouls, the official called an offensive foul.

Lopez scored 26 points and collected his second MVP award in as many days , though Jones (18pts) and Dijon Fisher (17pts) were both contenders.

Eighteen-year-old Shane Beadle old also produced the goods, especially on Saturday with a season high 16 points and 14 rebounds.

The Lions are next in action on Sunday, January 6 at home to Sefton Stars.